Resistance of Alkali-Activated Fe-rich Non-ferrous Metallurgy Slag to Aggressive Media

Promovendus/a: Nana Wen

Promotor(en): Prof. dr. Yiannis Pontikes, De heer Tobias Hertel, Dr. Arne Peys

Cement, an essential building material, is a major contributor to carbon emissions. To combat this, researchers are developing eco-friendly alternatives. This PhD research explores one such option: a new cement substitute made from recycled industrial by-products, specifically iron-rich slag. By transforming this waste material into a durable building material, this research helps reduce both pollution and waste.

The study focused on how this new cement alternative performs in challenging conditions like acidic environments and sulfate-rich solutions, similar to what’s found in coastal or agricultural areas. Different chemical adjustments were tested to find the best recipe for strength and durability. Results showed that iron-rich slag-based alkali-activated material is especially resilient to sulfate solutions and does well in acids with certain chemical tweaks. This breakthrough suggests that iron-rich slag alkali-activated material could be a sustainable choice for tough environments, paving the way for greener construction options that also recycle industrial waste.